We live in exciting times. But with rapid changes in technology, ways of working, safety, and transport, it can be easy to feel like we are falling behind or failing to keep up with the advancements. We may feel like we have been driving the same old car forever, or struggle to understand some of the newest rules, regulations, and advances in technology. With our helpful guide below, you can explore five simple but effective ways to modernize your driving. So let’s learn how to drive smart.
TIP 1: Be Safety Conscious
Modern driving is highly safety-conscious. People are more aware than ever of how their choices on the road impact other drivers. So a great way to modernize your driving is by emphasizing safety in a variety of ways.
Ensure that your car is safe and roadworthy with regular visits to the garage. Brush up on your skills and knowledge through reading or even attending courses. Consider also investing in the relevant safety technology. This might include warning lights and alarms, or high visibility features such as fog lights.
The future of driving is in ensuring that drivers, passengers, and other road users are as safe as possible.
TIP 2: Go ‘Green’
The environment is a hot topic and a more pressing issue than ever, particularly following the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report of August 2021. It stated that ‘human activity is changing the climate in unprecedented and sometimes irreversible ways.’
Transport is a significant contributor to pollution and environmental harm — especially options that use fossil fuels or produce harmful emissions.
More drivers than ever are keen to do their part and reduce any negative impact on the environment. Whether you can make a big change or only a small contribution, every little helps!
Perhaps you might consider switching to an electric car, for example. Even drivers with long commutes are now opting for electric cars that offer a longer range. Alternatively, you might use your car only when necessary and choose other options when possible.
Whatever choice you make, do it with the environment in mind and you will be making a positive impact on the world.
TIP 3: Be Energy Efficient
Even if it is not possible for you to have an electric or hybrid vehicle, you can still modernize your driving by being energy efficient. Even petrol and diesel users can drive in a way that wastes the least amount of fuel possible.
Choose the appropriate gear, for example, reduce wind resistance, and anticipate the road ahead. Don’t make sudden movements that require a lot of fuel. Also, keep your car in good working order as this can contribute to better energy efficiency overall.
You will save money, increase the longevity of your car, and drive smart in a thoroughly modern way too!
TIP 4: Be Prepared
If recent years have taught us anything, it is to expect the unexpected! Therefore, driving smart means being as prepared as possible for potential disruptions.
One way to do this is to carry a kit for all eventualities. This might mean a breakdown or repairs kit — complete with tools and equipment, a spare tire, and a mobile phone charger, for example.
It could also be as simple as a kit for hot weather (with water and hand fans) or even hygiene (with masks, hand sanitizer, and wipes). Using your car safely during the outbreak of COVID-19, for example, required drivers to utilize more sanitary practices than before.
So be as prepared as you can, pack effective kits, and do your research by checking routes in advance.
TIP 5: Use Technology
Technology plays a large role in modern driving, but it doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming. While some drivers choose to invest in all the latest kit, you can select technology that best suits your needs and budget.
If you use SatNav regularly, for example, make sure that you have the best model you can afford and that it is always in good working order. If you have a particular safety concern, try to ensure that you have the right kit and technology that will help you cope with the particular circumstance — like for example, by taking safety lights with you during night drives in case your car develops a fault and comes to a halt in the middle of the road. Make sure that your car has a car dongle. When a dongle is plugged into an OBD II diagnostics port, it is possible to monitor the vehicle’s performance and location.
Overall then, as the above tips illustrate, modern driving is mainly about prioritizing your comfort, safety, and efficiency while driving. So let’s drive smart!